Thai immigration authorities have apprehended a Chinese fugitive operating an illicit tour business in Bangkok. Following a tip-off about an Asian man suspected of working and residing illegally in Thailand, officers conducted a detailed investigation.
Duan, a 42-year-old Chinese national residing in a luxury condominium in the Ramkhamhaeng district, was taken into custody. Duan was already wanted in China for a major fraud case.
Samut Sakhon Immigration Police began monitoring Duan’s activities and discovered a well-organized operation. He regularly left his residential compound to escort groups of Chinese tourists to their accommodations, offering bespoke tours that catered to privacy-conscious business travelers who preferred avoiding mainstream tour companies. With mounting evidence, immigration officers swooped in on Duan as he assisted clients at a luxury hotel in the Ratchadaphisek area. A thorough inspection revealed that his residence permit had expired on February 3. Consequently, Duan was charged with working without authorization and overstaying his visa. Further investigations revealed a darker side to Duan’s story.
Coordination with Chinese security authorities uncovered his criminal past. In January last year, Duan impersonated a regional sales manager for a prestigious wine company, luring several retailers into purchasing high-end rare wines at a supposed 10% discount. He convinced his victims to transfer nearly 2 million yuan (approximately 10 million baht) to his account, only to vanish without delivering the promised goods, according to KhaoSod English.
The Public Security Bureau in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, subsequently issued an arrest warrant and revoked his passport.
In related news, a 36-year-old Chinese national was apprehended in Pattaya on April 8, following suspicions of illegal entry into Thailand and unauthorized employment as a guide. On the day of his arrest, Ke Pan was located inside a car with the windows rolled down, appearing noticeably uneasy upon spotting a patrolling police vehicle, which consequently triggered his attempt to flee.
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